As a veteran-friendly organization, WESCO makes an active effort to hire veterans. WESCO also looks for opportunities to give back to military veterans outside of our organization. Last month, the Government Team fundraised for a national charity to give back to injured veterans.

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It’s been a big year for the WESCO blog! From construction and industrial to government and utility, we’ve covered a lot of new technology, industry trends and standards updates. Whether it’s increasing safety, becoming more productive, improving processes, or increasing profitability, we hope the WESCO blog has been an asset to you and your business.

While most elements of ladder safety might seem like common sense, OSHA requires that employers take additional measures to ensure that their workers’ safety isn’t compromised. Of several topics covered in the most recent Walking Working Surfaces standard, updates detailing fixed ladder use within general industry settings were a key focus.

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What defines infrastructure as being “critical”? Technically, these are systems and assets, either physical or virtual, which are so vital that their incapacity or destruction would have a debilitating impact on security, national economic stability, public health and safety or any combination of those matters.

The marketplace for physical security solutions is hyper-competitive and isn’t going to change anytime soon. Security Integrators charged with finding products like cameras, video management software, NVRs, cabling, racks and cabinets, etc. are under great pressure to boost profits for every job. If you are like most integrators sources for your security product supply chain range from distributors to manufacturers, online and in some cases even big-box retailers.

Back to school time means college students across the country are eagerly cramming bedding, clothing and (most importantly) their multiple networked devices into dorm rooms that are roughly the size of a coat closet. We’ve all seen scalability in action on campuses throughout the country. Whether funding a dining hall renovation or a greenfield project supporting the expansion of the business school, educational institutions seem to be tireless in their efforts to increase their footprints.

On average, lighting accounts for 16% of a hospital’s total energy consumption and over 40% of its total electricity usage. Areas like waiting rooms and hallways are often active 24/7, making lighting a key priority for every healthcare facility. In spite of this information, a lighting upgrade can often seem like a daunting, expensive undertaking leaving decision makers perplexed. In many instances, a lighting upgrade or retrofit project can be tackled quickly, showing rapid ROI due to provincial rebates, financing opportunities and efficient lighting design. In addition to improving energy consumption, taking advantage of opportunities for improvements on a large or small scale also go a long way in improving dedicated labor time, sustainability goals, patient wellness and worker productivity.

In September, Conney Safety took home one of three “Best in Show” prizes awarded at the National Safety Council Congress and Expo. As the only distributor to win the honor, we wanted to connect with the Conney Safety team to learn about the design and development of their winning product – the Direct Safety Karbonhex Dusk Glove. On October 19, we met with Conney Safety Brand Manager Missy Taylor, the woman behind the new glove.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) drives workplace safety procedures that span multiple industries. On the surface it may seem that different industries such as food and beverage processing and oil and gas drilling and refining should have very different safety standards. In fact, there are several safety standards that are applicable to both due to the similarities in their harsh, wet environments and the types of devices used in them.

Profitable construction projects are the result of a successful blend of labor, material and equipment management. Too often, contractors concentrate exclusively on labor or cost reduction and overlook the opportunity for improvement by implementing material management strategies.

In circumstances that call for temporary power, the long-standing approach has been to cobble together an electrical system using whatever extension cords and portable power supplies may be on hand. Although applications that call for portable power are inherently impermanent, it’s important not to sacrifice safety and increase the risk of trip-and-fall, electrical shock or other injuries. In fact, since these temporary power scenarios are typically found outdoors in the elements and require a significant amount of handling and transportation, extra attention should be paid to make sure the portable power equipment is safe, reliable and built to survive.

After decades as a temperamental light source for industrial use, the high-bay fixture has become a versatile performer thanks to advanced LED technology. You know the type: bright, athletic, resourceful and stylish. They make tough assignments look easy, instantly light up a room and excel at multiple sports. They fit in almost anywhere — and look good out on the town.

Lean manufacturing is a common practice within manufacturing processes that systemically reduces waste and cost while increasing efficiency. While the primary focus of Lean is the production floor, many of the same principles extend beyond to the warehouse. For example, storage of raw materials, subcomponents and finished products is a necessary function for most businesses, however if those tasks are not properly managed they can quickly eat away at profits and compromise customer service.

Think about the last time you were traveling. To find your hotel, call a cab, meet up with your associates, check your schedule and stay on top of emails, you needed one thing – a device and a full charge. The constant need to stay connected has changed our expectations and subsequently changed the hospitality industry.

This year, OSHA made updates to its Walking Working Surfaces standard for general industry, in an effort to bring fall protection requirements more in-line with those for the construction industry. As a result, OSHA estimates the new rule will prevent 29 worker deaths and 5,842 lost-workday injuries each year. In addition, compliance will be easier and more affordable to maintain, since the requirements now overlap industries and many existing ANSI (American National Standards Institute) standards.

When it comes to testing breaker function and safety, it’s possible that there are substantial risks that have gone unnoticed for years. Breakers are typically tested just once a year, in accordance with most manufacturer’s recommendations. However, there are often circumstances where this standard schedule might not be enough to prevent hazardous situations.

As new versions of phones, tablets and laptops hit the market faster than ever before, it’s obvious that technology is ever changing. Quick technological advancements aren’t without frustration. We’re all too familiar with the hair-pulling challenge of finding the right device charger or learning that your six-month-old charger is antiquated. Our business environments are no different. As can be expected, the situation is often more dire than just a sea of Apple iPhone chargers when all you need is a micro-USB.

In the days leading up to making landfall in Florida on September 10, Hurricane Irma was already making history as one of the largest, strongest, and most devastating storms ever recorded. WESCO’s Utility Group recognized that it would take an all-hands-on-deck approach for its Florida utility customers to restore power to millions of people when the storm was over.

Over the last fifty years or so, advancement in technology has created incredible diversity of choice in the world of generation protective relay – however, many operations are relying on the same relay systems they implemented close to thirty years ago without much thought. With options ranging from solid-state, to electromechanical and microprocessing, how can decision makers be sure that they’re using the best tool for the job?

While every company has different challenges when it comes to safety, some training best practices are consistent across industries. OSHA recently made changes to its Walking Working Surfaces standard for general industry. With this update, OSHA estimates that the final rule will prevent 29 worker deaths and 5,842 lost-workday injuries each year. By harmonizing general industry requirements with OSHA's existing construction industry standard and many ANSI standards, the new rule makes compliance easier and less costly.

Today’s data centers face more demands than ever before. The increasing number of connected devices, along with more data and users, has pushed data center managers to find creative methods to efficiently meet network requirements. While lighting makes up a small percent of a data center’s load, it presents a unique opportunity for addressing energy efficiency.

Take a moment and think about the supply bins you have within your warehouse or on a job site. You may have a technician periodically check your bin inventory levels. When items are running low, that technician goes into the warehouse or truck and replenishes the bin.

The “Internet of Things” has evolved from buzzword status to mainstream reality, but not without its challenges. While most still think of millions of IP-enabled devices as an exciting opportunity, 2016 gave us a sobering reminder of the pitfalls of not properly securing our internet-connected refrigerators, DVRs and thermostats.

When it comes to handling hazardous chemicals, workers need the proper equipment to stay safe. Protecting a worker’s face and head should be an employer’s top priority. And while many businesses supply safety equipment, it’s not always used in the right way. A faceshield doesn’t provide the coverage necessary to prevent injury 100 percent of the time. Workers need to wear personal protective equipment (PPE) that protects both the eyes and the face from injury. A faceshield alone doesn’t always guarantee safety.

Efficiency on a lighting project is critical to profitability. Contractors seek ways to save time and money — particularly on labor costs — to ensure maximum profitability from every job. While lighting installations come with their own set of challenges, properly managing material can save time and ultimately increase job profitability.

Over the last decade, rapid improvements in lighting technology coupled with a focus on energy conservation backed by legislation have resulted in a noisy marketplace. Consumers are inundated as big brands compete every day to get their latest products and statistics online.

As consumer demands on networks increase, more businesses are turning to Category 6A cabling for their network infrastructure. This decision is primarily being driven by affordable price, high quality, and exceptional performance. Here are five reasons why you should choose Category 6A cable for your enterprise applications.

While sensors have long played an important role in industrial settings, the intersection of market forces in manufacturing with the Internet of Things (IoT) has recently propelled sensor technology to new heights. Coupled with greater network connectivity and improved machine learning, sensors are now more vital than ever as manufacturers search for ways to optimize value throughout all levels of operation.

Professionals who brave the elements year-round know that summertime often creates particularly harsh outdoor working conditions. Exposure to heat and the sun is not only challenging from a productivity perspective but can lead to serious short- and long-term health implications.

At 27 million degrees Fahrenheit, the sun produces large amounts of energy. This energy can be collected through a solar device that converts sunlight into electricity. Solar energy is reliable and easy to use, making it attractive to numerous businesses. In 2017, switching to solar is a trend that's gaining momentum in unexpected places. More and more unlikely industries are integrating solar energy into their everyday operations because of its cost effectiveness and reliability.

LED lighting in schools can do which of the following? A. Save up to 70 percent on energy costs B. Last several times longer with little or no maintenance C. Provide more uniform, pleasing illumination D. Enhance brand appeal E. Improve student performance F. All of the above

As one of the oldest and most heavily regulated trades in the world, mining faces challenges that are shared across many industries yet uniquely complex due to harsh, changing environments. While the cost of doing business rises due to volatile commodity prices and a shrinking talent pool, decision makers must maintain an urgent focus on safety, efficiency and social responsibility. Mining is well-positioned to leverage emerging technologies in the Internet of Things (IoT) to meet these competing demands. Mine operators can take advantage of IoT data through RFIDs, Radio over IP, and video for greater safety and efficiency.

Mining presents a variety of risks to those working underground. But one of the most dangerous risks in mining electrical work is an arc flash. An arc fault heats the air around it in an electrical enclosure, causing pressure to build and metals to vaporize, leading to an arc flash. The high temperatures destroy even the most powerful metals and the pressure forces shrapnel outwards.

Are you in the market for a new gas detector? You may wonder if you can use the same calibration gas that you’ve been using for the detectors you are replacing or phasing out. Usually, the answer is “no.” The gas values used for older models, even if by the same manufacturer, don’t often match the gas values required for new units. Even if two gas detectors have identical sensors and features, the calibration gas values needed may be completely different.

In its earliest days, industrial automation made waves in manufacturing simply by increasing productivity and reducing high human operator costs. While those advantages are still a major draw for many businesses, the focus has broadened in recent years. Decision makers are now seeking solutions to make their processes safer, flexible and more accurate.

Electrical workers face many dangers on the job, but few (if any) are more devastating than an arc flash. This electrical release of energy can be hotter than the surface of the sun, producing an explosion with the force of eight sticks of dynamite. It is estimated that 10 arc flash incidents involving more than one death occur every day in the U.S.

Today’s data centers come in all forms, from large hyperscale data centers and collocation facilities, to small datacom closets. While the needs of data center managers are varied, numerous and frequently changing, there is one constant — expanding network needs drive bandwidth and speed requirements, and a data center must be able to accommodate. High-speed optics can help meet the increasing demand.

Today’s workplaces are expanding beyond the four walls of an office. As technology continues to evolve, employees are looking for new and alternative workspaces to inspire creativity and increase productivity. This includes taking their work to outdoor spaces. Bringing technology to outdoor spaces has become a challenge for facility managers and property owners who want to increase the value of their workspace while keeping their businesses running smoothly and their employees happy.

By now, you’ve probably heard of some of the benefits of LED lighting. LEDs last longer than other bulbs, reducing maintenance and costs, and can increase productivity. LEDs are also intelligent and hold potential to unlock further savings through the Internet of Things. But is LED lighting really right for your facility? Whether you work in retail, commercial or industrial sectors, answering that question is easier than ever.

Maintaining the security of the electrical grid is recognized as a top priority by most federal, state and local entities. There are 16 critical infrastructure sectors whose security is entrusted to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), and the electrical grid is what allows the other 15 to function. The financial resources to implement necessary mitigation solutions to deter, detect, protect, respond and recover from an event are limited.

Strategic marketing or labeling that uses the term “food grade” has caused a great deal of confusion in the food and beverage industry. It’s led companies to believe they are buying a food-safe product when, in truth, they may not be. The assumption is that the food-grade product has been subjected to rigorous testing to ensure safety throughout the food and beverage processing environment. But, in fact, there is no industry certification called “food grade.”

Risks are inherent in industrial plants and other settings where workers come into contact with heavy equipment and processes combining metal surfaces, electrical machinery and power systems. GFCI-compliance and watertight connections are critical wherever power components contact moisture, chemicals, weather and other harsh environmental conditions. Industrial operations are at risk anytime unprotected electrical connections are exposed to moisture, metals and harsh conditions.

Physical security concerns are an integral issue for healthcare facilities. These vital organizations are open to the public and serve vulnerable populations. A physical or cybersecurity attack could be devastating to the facility, its personnel, patients and the community. Conducting a risk assessment can significantly mitigate the vulnerabilities of a healthcare facility to ensure a safe environment for everyone.

Article originally published Oct. 20, 2016 and updated for relevance. As applications require more processing power, equipment generates more heat. Excessive heat can cause serious damage to equipment, shortening service life and even leading to catastrophic failure. To keep electrical equipment running at top speed, heat must be managed. Learn why enclosure cooling is necessary and how to oversee heat management according to national standards.

For contractors and integrators, today’s marketplace is hypercompetitive. Every day brings a challenge to get more out of less. Increasing job profitability is the way to stay truly competitive in an increasingly competitive marketplace.

For every mining professional, the U.S. Department of Labor’s Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) is a frequently discussed topic. This organization regulates the mining industry to create safer mines through safety and health rules. With expected regulation changes coming from MSHA, we wanted a professional’s opinion on the state of mining standards. We sat down with Adele L. Abrams, Esq., CMSP, on March 16, 2016, to discuss the latest in MSHA standards and how the new administration may impact mining standards.

By their very nature, mining operations are high-volume electricity users. Energy costs have a significant impact on the mining industry’s bottom line. The good news is that there is something you can do to improve your energy efficiency without sacrificing your operating efficiency. It’s all about power factor and power factor correction.

While working around live wires, keeping electricity grounded should be every miner’s number one priority. It stops electricity from seeking a worker’s body as the grounding path. Grounding electrical equipment is required by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration and ASTM International to promote safe work environments while electrical work is done.

Industrial controls systems are facing an enemy that’s only becoming more hazardous – cyberattacks. Last year, one report found that 34 percent of industrial control systems around the globe were breached more than twice in one year. To better protect and secure federal agencies’ networks, new federal guidelines were published that standardize government cybersecurity efforts. The Unified Facility Criteria UFC 4-010-06, released by the Department of Defense (DoD) in September 2016, lists requirements for incorporating cybersecurity into control system design. It is the first complete list of standards and processes for cybersecurity design guidance specifically written for all DoD control systems.

The National Association of Educational Procurement (NAEP) Annual Meeting is a place for procurement colleagues from schools large and small, public and private, across the country. But this year’s event also provided an opportunity for conference attendees to give back. WESCO sponsored two community service projects at NAEP 2017 to benefit the local community of Reno, NV.

Imagine a cluttered storeroom with scattered parts in mismatched bins. Nothing is labeled and nothing is organized. Can you imagine how difficult it will be to find the exact part you need, let alone to find that component quickly? A possible solution to organize your facility — and cut down on SKUs — is to implement a kitting program.

While working on an electrical line, promoting electrical safety is absolutely critical. The line you are working on could become energized in an instant, creating a dangerous, even deadly, situation. Lightning, human error, static electricity, induced voltage and backfeed are all serious dangers to line workers. A top priority in electrical safety is keeping electricity grounded while work is performed. Grounding prevents electricity from seeking your body as the grounding path. OSHA and ASTM have mandated specific requirements to ensure that you remain safely grounded by using the right equipment and keeping that equipment functioning properly through inspections, cleaning and recertification. Follow these requirements, as well as company best practices, to support a safe work zone where the probability of an incident is reduced.

As a purchasing professional, it can seem like your biggest hurdle is figuring out how to do more with less. Getting the highest quality product for the lowest possible cost can be a challenge. The primary responsibility of a purchasing department is to procure goods and services for an organization, but determining the balance between locally managed and quoted agreements and leveraging the work of other agencies is part of the role. Working together with others can often yield better results than working alone. That’s especially true in negotiating prices. Joining a network of like-minded professionals as part of a cooperative contract provides an innovative way to get better prices and save time.

According to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, the average annual fatality rate for power line workers is 56 deaths per 100,000 employees. To keep workers safe, there are several personal protective equipment (PPE) items that should be utilized in the field. One of the most important lines of defense is rubber goods.

When you’re standing or sitting at work for long periods of time, there’s nothing worse than sore legs and feet. Every year, two million sick days are lost to lower limb disorders. Ergonomic injuries come at a high cost. According to the Occupational Health and Safety Administration, $1 of every $3 spent on workers’ compensation comes from insufficient ergonomic protection. It’s clear that taking steps to prevent these injuries is well worth it.

Electrical equipment is only as effective as it is protected. Whether you’re indoors, outdoors, exposed to water, or facing harsh weather conditions, electrical equipment needs to be protected by an enclosure. Choosing the right electrical enclosure requires some knowledge of electrical standards. Ratings from the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) provide guidance on what level of protection your enclosure needs depending on the environmental factors it is subjected to.

Slips, trips and falls are some of the most preventable workplace accidents, yet the numbers don’t seem to prove it. Second only to motor vehicles, incidents related to slips, trips and falls account for 15 percent of accidental deaths. They can also cost an employer an average of tens of thousands of dollars per incident.

Did you know that four million workers go to work each day in damaging noise? In just one year, 23,000 cases were reported of occupational hearing loss that was great enough to cause hearing impairment. And these are only the cases that were reported! From these statistics, it’s clear that we’re not doing enough to prevent hearing loss at work. Employers give earplugs and earmuffs to employees, but getting employees to wear them when they need to is another story altogether.

There really hasn’t been a better time to embrace smart lighting. In both subtle and significant ways, this technology is becoming essential to our everyday routines. It is allowing companies to improve employee concentration in the workplace. Cities are getting brighter and safer with the help of LED street lights. Smart lighting is becoming the norm, and it will only get more powerful over time.

Times are changing in manufacturing. The Internet of Things has made its way to the industry and spawned a new term in the process: Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT). Smart factories are becoming more popular (and expected) thanks to the ability to connect key technologies. Manufacturers who haven’t followed suit yet are encouraged to get moving.

In some industries, things are relatively stable from year to year. While manufacturing was done in much the same way for many years, emerging trends promise to change that. An original equipment manufacturer (OEM) must be resourceful and search for opportunities to stay competitive in an increasingly volatile market. While there may be challenges ahead, applying industry best practices will help any manufacturer operate at the top of their game.

Step outside and you’ll notice that the air is brisk and people are bundled up in coats. Winter is upon us. And while that brings festive parties and holiday deals, winter means extra strains on wire and cable. Cold temperatures and atmospheric changes that come with winter weather can impact the effectiveness of some cabling materials. Prepare for cool weather and winter storms to ensure uninterrupted operation that’s reliable every day of the year.

Article originally published Sept. 2, 2016, and updated for accuracy and relevance. Data centers face ever-increasing demands in today’s digital environment. Using the right fiber optic links is the first step to ensuring an efficient, future-proof data center. Learn the benefits of Base-8 and Base-12 connectivity so you can design a network that reaches long-term transmission requirements.

Contractors are always under pressure to get a job done on time. When they don’t, there can be a negative impact on costs and the client relationship. That’s why it’s ironic that construction is one of the more inefficient industries when it comes to work processes.

In the wire and cable industry, compliance can be a challenging thing. Staying up to date on industry codes and standards is critical to ensuring worker and facility safety. The National Electrical Code (NEC) provides guidance for electrical contractors, inspectors and engineers by standardizing safe electrical practices. And as the industry changes, codes and standards need to be updated. With the 2017 NEC now available, it’s important to know what changes are coming.

It’s not uncommon for contractors to face material management obstacles. Projects are often delayed because of haphazard storage, damaged products and other issues. While some of these problems are out of a contractor’s control, others can be solved with outside expertise, preventative measures, and Lean practices.

Data center cooling has traditionally been tackled one way. Air conditioning units (or CRACs) are placed around the outside wall of the room and aligned with the hot aisle. They then pump cold air underneath a raised floor for distribution in the cold aisle. While this method is generally considered an effective technique, it has a big limitation. It makes air travel long distances through open spaces between the CRAC and the equipment needing cooling. This contributes to inefficiency.

For the mining industry, safety and lighting go hand in hand. Navigating harsh and hazardous conditions requires a well-lit work area. Slip and fall accidents are the second-leading cause of non-fatal mining-related injuries according to a report by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH).

Article originally published Feb. 4, 2016, and updated for accuracy and relevance. In the immortal words of "Game of Thrones," winter is here. Luckily for us, we don't have to worry about facing the army of the dead in 100-foot-high snow drifts. There are, however, plenty of outdoor workers who will be exposed to the harsh elements this season. As conditions start to deteriorate, brush up on these 5 essential tips for every outdoor winter worker.

When it comes to a data center’s power usage effectiveness (PUE), every IT manager wants to get as close to that perfect score of 1.0 as possible. One of the biggest causes of high PUE is an inefficient data center infrastructure – namely, your physical setup. Just like in relationships, the last thing you want is a data center running hot and cold.

For electrical workers, there’s no danger more worrying than an arc flash. Non-contact electrical burns from an arc flash are the biggest cause of electrical injuries in the mining industry. But as dangerous as an arc flash is for mining personnel, companies face further concerns such as lost man-hours, lawsuits, fines, equipment damage and facility downtime. Reducing the risk of an arc flash doesn’t require a complete facility overhaul or redesign. By updating and refurbishing existing equipment, you can create a safer environment economically.

If you went to work today and sat in a gray cubicle, or were surrounded by endless white walls, chances are your mood matched the color of your environment. Bland, cold colors in the workplace could leave us feeling sullen instead of inspired. Adding vibrant paint schemes or accents is not only aesthetically pleasing, but capable of boosting mood, morale and productivity.

If you’re looking for a way to increase safety and efficiencies in your mining operations, using “Lean” methods will help you accomplish that. This Japanese system has swept through global industries, eliminating waste in its path. While 5S has helped mining companies accomplish Lean objectives, many have called for a greater focus on warehouse safety. With the addition of a sixth step, mining organizations are using Lean practices to increase warehouse productivity without sacrificing safety. For workers employed in harsh and hazardous environments, 6S is especially effective in securing worker safety.

Increasing efficiency in the data center can be a challenge, but it’s possible with facility-wide collaboration. Bring together the skills of your IT and operations personnel with an infrastructure management strategy that meets your facility’s needs well into the future. Learn how data center infrastructure management (DCIM) can benefit your facility and how to start implementing your strategy today.

Data center managers often say, “I want my data center to run more efficiently,” or ask “What solutions do you have that will drive efficiency?” While these are important questions to ask, they’re challenging to answer because not everyone has the same definitions of efficiency and success. Some managers consider only the amount of power and cooling being used, while some think it’s all about using whitespace. Others focus on processing and network connectivity.

With retail theft on the rise, many retailers install Internet protocol (IP) cameras for security purposes. But the benefits of video surveillance can go far beyond reducing shoplifting. Many retailers don’t realize that IP-based video is data that can be gathered, stored and analyzed just like any other electronic information.

Just from looking at an open-pit mine, it’s easy to see that mining requires a significant capital investment. Between expensive equipment and a specialized workforce, players in the mining game know that keeping maintenance costs under control is paramount. This year, we’ve seen several trends emerging in the international mining industry. The first step in staying competitive is knowing these trends. The next step is having cost-effective equipment that keeps your mine running.

In the last year, overall patient satisfaction in the healthcare industry has dropped. In fact, patient satisfaction is the lowest it’s been in nearly ten years. Increasing patient satisfaction starts with improving facilities. Make improvements to healthcare infrastructure to increase overall satisfaction and help healthcare professionals make better decisions.

Only a few years ago, classrooms were bursting with blackboards, pencils and notebooks. Today, you don’t have to look far to find a plethora of monitors, computers, tablets and smartphones. Recent advances in technology have found their way into schools because of the numerous benefits to both students and teachers. Increased school performance, healthier lifestyles and added convenience can all be achieved by integrating technology with traditional classroom learning for a truly smart classroom.

When a surveillance camera is installed, you want to know that the images it captures will be crisp, clear and useful. To get the most from video surveillance, it’s important to understand the basic factors that contribute to good image usability. Learn how light affects exposure settings and contributes to image quality to guarantee that your images always look sharp, never fuzzy.

As medical technology moves toward increasing connectivity, the door has opened to security breaches. Since 2005, over 880 million records have been stolen due to data breaches. With today’s advances in technology, patients and physicians have better access to lifesaving medicine and procedures. But keeping patients and their data safe from cyber criminals is a growing concern.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 48 million Americans get sick each year from foodborne illnesses. Another 128,000 are hospitalized and 3,000 are killed. These alarming statistics helped lead to the signing of the FDA Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) in 2011. The legislation, which recently went into effect, enforces proactive measures to prevent food contamination.

North America is fast learning that size matters when it comes to cable installation. Legacy conduits are becoming congested with large traditional loose tube cables. This has caused a demand for cost-effective smaller cables with higher fiber density.

Security professionals know that there is an almost endless supply of market-available access control solutions. The ensuing headaches that come from selecting the wrong system can be avoided by doing a little homework and asking the right questions. Having all the facts guarantees that you’ll choose a solution ideally suited to your customers' needs.

In the past few years, falling oil prices have rocked the oil and gas industry. Oil and gas companies have had to get creative to remain profitable. Investing in new technology has shown promise for improving profitability and lowering costs. Using Internet of Things (IoT) technology, companies can leverage data to increase efficiency, raise security standards, and better their bottom line.

In today’s global environment, manufacturers are fighting to stay ahead of the competition. New technology is giving some manufacturers an upper hand. Industrial automation and smart machines are increasing productivity, cutting costs, and creating more agile supply chains for manufacturers in many industries.

For years, high-definition (HD) security cameras were considered the gold standard. Cutting-edge technology is changing that. New 4K surveillance camera technology offers major benefits and opportunities to the video security industry. With the biggest advantage of higher resolution, 4K technology is changing the industry. The 4K standard of camera technology has already shown great promise in the broadcast, digital cinema and consumer businesses.

Many of us may feel well-versed on the Internet of Things (IoT) by now. We’ve experienced an avalanche of information about this technology in recent years, including how it’s going to change all of our lives. But regardless of what we already know, the IoT grows more complex every day. Its advancing capabilities are changing the business world in both big ways and small.

It can boggle the mind how quickly technology moves, and how things that were once a part of our everyday lives have rapidly become obsolete. Some people today might be as perplexed by items that were essential to recent generations as they would be by a tool from the Bronze Age. So what is causing this accelerated pace of obsolescence?

When working in harsh and hazardous areas, ensuring worker safety requires constant attention. In refineries, chemical plants, and production areas, operating conditions are a constant challenge. Changing a single lamp can be expensive and possibly even dangerous. Safe, efficient and cost-effective lighting is paramount in these environments.

Video surveillance has come a long way from the days when analog CCTV cameras dominated the market. Significant technological advances, such as delivering HD-quality video or higher, improve overall surveillance capabilities and provide other value-added benefits.

Power is an obvious essential for healthcare facilities. Medical staff rely on it to ensure optimal patient care, and patients depend on it for comfort and recovery. Medical-grade power strips are an effective way for healthcare facilities to achieve reliable power that complies with industry standards.

There are a lot of variables when it comes to a student’s success in college. Good study habits, passionate teachers, and valuable campus resources all contribute to a positive college experience. But one aspect of campus life that touches students’ lives every day is often overlooked. Believe it or not, a big determinant of campus success is lighting.

Companies rely on different types of surveillance cameras for various reasons, such as reading a license plate or recognizing a face. Megapixel cameras have become a reliable option for businesses that need quality, high-resolution images to help protect their employees and assets. But high resolution isn’t their only attractive feature. Megapixel cameras also offer a greater return on investment (ROI) than other types of cameras.

Have you ever seen multiple security cameras grouped in one spot in a stadium or parking garage? More than one camera may be required to provide full coverage of large areas. But a “camera tree” that mounts a camera off of each branch, or one massive enclosure that houses four full-size brick cameras, is awkward — and ugly.

Summer might be coming to a close, but there’s still plenty of time for swimming, barbecuing and dining outdoors. The following tips will help you enjoy the last few weeks of the season in the safest way possible.

There’s no doubt that the healthcare industry is embracing mobility. A recent survey of healthcare companies found that 65 percent of those surveyed are investing in wireless infrastructure upgrades to support the growing number of monitors, machines and devices that rely on wireless connectivity. Only 40 percent of healthcare providers say they have adequate wireless connectivity in their facilities today.

Universities and colleges face many possible risks. While it may be impossible to plan for every crisis situation, you can put processes in place to be prepared. Creating a robust emergency plan is the first step to ensuring a safe place for students, faculty, and the general public. But once your plan is in place, how do you know if it is actively protecting your campus?

If you’ve stayed at a hotel recently, you likely weren’t given a traditional room key. This is because there is a growing shift toward digital locks, including among commercial businesses. More companies are seeing huge value in converting to electronic door access through standalone, all-encompassing networked, or hybrid systems.

According to OSHA, approximately three million workers who service equipment face potential injury if lockout/tagout (LOTO) is not properly implemented. Complying with the LOTO standard could help prevent an estimated 120 fatalities and 50,000 injuries each year.

It’s that time of year when Government Services Administration (GSA) schedules are in the spotlight. Many federal agencies use these schedules to access discounted products and services that will streamline the federal procurement process. This contract vehicle is particularly important during federal year-end buying season. Every year, agencies scramble to spend their remaining budgets by the September 30 deadline or else lose their funds.

There is much to consider when helping customers design a complete video surveillance system. Getting started will involve selecting the right materials, understanding the installation process, and knowing how to prepare for future growth and change.

When architects design buildings, they think about more than just style or aesthetics. They also consider the user experience — how occupants will move about in, function in, and even enjoy a building. And now a new tool, the Internet of Things (IoT), is taking design to a whole new level.

Think of your supply chain as your company’s engine – the smoother it runs, the more effective your business will be. Most companies realize this, but accomplishing it is a bigger challenge. Supply chains aren’t vastly improved overnight. It’s a process that requires time, resources, and the right professionals who can help shape and drive your strategy. But if done the right way, your organization will be able to master its processes, save costs, and mitigate wastes like a well-oiled machine.

Workplace safety is paramount, and sometimes the worst accidents are the easiest to prevent. Slips, trips and falls account for 25% of all injury claims per fiscal year and 15% of all accidental deaths, second only to motor vehicles. They are also responsible for more than 95 million lost work days annually. Here are four simple ways to prevent your employees from getting “tripped” up.

In the event of a critical situation, campuses could save lives with the help of a strong emergency plan. To get there, they must think beyond traditional security methods. Those approaches are a solid start, but they might not be enough. Now campuses must evaluate all potential security scenarios to ensure the safety of students and staff.

Last June, New York Governor Andrew Cuomo signed a law requiring every restaurant and commercial building in the state to install carbon monoxide (CO) detectors by June 27, 2016. The law will apply to both new and existing buildings with possible sources of CO, such as garages, electrical generators, and faulty furnaces. Alarms should be installed in a central location within every 10,000 feet in a facility. They must also be hard-wired units with battery backup.

On Thursday, June 9, WESCO will officially unveil its new Seattle, Wash., facility. The 120,000-square-foot building will be open to the public for an open house from 12–6 p.m., where attendees can visit a supplier trade show, check out mobile demonstration trucks from Crouse-Hinds and Philips Lighting, and attend free CEC education sessions.

Locking our doors is one of the first and most effective forms of security, including in the workplace. To protect their employees and assets, companies can choose from either mechanical (keyed) locks or electronic systems. But does one provide better security over the other?

Workplace safety shouldn’t just be a leadership priority. The best way to nurture a true and effective safety culture is to involve your whole organization. There are plenty of ways to make safety a hot topic with your employees. You could start meetings with a brief safety talk, hold a forum, or even arrange creative projects. You could also give your workers opportunities to provide feedback and report possible hazards.

It goes without saying that safety should be your first priority. A strong safety culture protects your employees, equipment, and organization as a whole. So what happens if you encounter resistance when developing or changing your process?

In December 2015, Congress voted to extend the U.S. Solar Investment Tax Credit for both commercial and residential projects through 2019. Established by the Energy Policy Act of 2005, the initiative provides a 30% tax credit on the value of solar projects.

Next week’s National Association of Educational Procurement (NAEP) conference in San Antonio, Texas, will give WESCO a special opportunity. On Tuesday, May 24, our Government and Institutional team will sponsor the event’s annual community service project to benefit Soldiers’ Angels.

Thursday, May 19, will mark the official grand opening of our new branch in Sacramento, Calif. To honor the occasion, we’re hosting an open house from 3-7 p.m. PDT featuring a supplier trade show, interactive product demonstrations, and a casino-themed atmosphere.

This year's LIGHTFAIR International conference was held April 26-28 at the San Diego Convention Center. As usual, it was bustling with packed trade show floors and educational sessions. But this year’s focus was on more than the revolution of competitively priced LEDs.

May is National Electrical Safety Month, and it’s a crucial cause to honor. Electrical hazards result in roughly 325 deaths and 4,400 injuries every year, according to the National Safety Council. Throughout the month, the Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI) will run a major campaign to increase electrical safety awareness.

So, you’re considering installing LED lighting at your facility. You’ve heard all about what it can do for energy savings and the environment, and you’re intrigued. To add to your enthusiasm, here are four subtle ways this technology can help your business.

Picture this: You’re sitting in a conference room, eyeing a gorgeous asiago cheese bagel. Your mouth starts to salivate. Your eyes begin to bulge. All you want – all you can think about – is that bagel.

It takes only one person to start a movement. That’s what Madison Murchak, a WESCO trade show specialist, is accomplishing. In 2015, she took her passion for supporting our military and combined it with another passion (and talent) for making fleece blankets. The result was Fleece Connection, a Pittsburgh-based non-profit.

What happens in Vegas ... is some incredible racing action. On March 5, Ty Dillon and the #3 WESCO Chevy made their 2016 debut at Las Vegas Motor Speedway – and they had quite the cheering squad. Joining them and the Richard Childress Racing team were more than 40 lucky customers, supplier guests, and WESCO employees.

When most of us leave work, getting home and turning off our brains sounds pretty enticing. So while you’re driving and daydreaming about sweatpants and a comfy couch, here are five examples of LED lighting that would brighten your evening commute. Literally.

Lighting can greatly influence how we experience a museum. It’s what draws us to the intricacies of a sculpture or the vivid colors of a painting. By illuminating these pieces the right way, museums can really enhance their visitors' viewing pleasure.

If you prefer meeting in smaller groups, here’s some encouraging news. A growing trend is that of the “huddle room," a small conference room or meeting space designed specifically for the little group.